THE family of a couple who lost their lives in a helicopter crash on the Gold Coast on Monday (January, 2) have released an emotional tribute.

Ron, 65, and Diane Hughes, 57, from Neston, were visiting his daughter and her family in Australia when the tragedy occurred.

The couple, who got married in August 2021, were killed alongside the pilot and another passenger – a 36-year-old woman from Glenmore Park, New South Wales – when their helicopter collided with another at around 2pm local time – 4am GMT – on Monday in Main Beach.

Ron was the founder of the shop, Concept Interiors, which he opened in February 1992 and is located on Neston High Street.

The shop has been closed since the news broke with the sign "Due to unforeseen circumstances, the shop is closed until further notice" stuck on the shutters.

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Family tribute

In a heart-breaking tribute sent to the Liverpool Echo, Ron and Diane's family described them as "loyal, fun-loving and generous." They said that they are still coming to terms with the "tragedy."

They said: "We are deeply saddened and still in a state of shock from the events that unfolded on Monday. Ron and Diane arrived last week visiting our family on the Gold Coast after being separated by Covid for the last few years.

"They were the most generous, loyal, fun-loving couple who had a zest for life and were loved and adored by everyone they met. Tragedies like this happen to “other people” and we are all struggling to come to terms with our loss.

"They leave a huge hole in our family and will be survived by parents, brothers, sons, daughters, and their cheeky grandkids. On behalf of our Australian and UK family, we would like to thank all the first responders, emergency services and Sea World staff for their heroics in trying to save our loved ones.

"Our thoughts are with everyone impacted and we pray for the recovery of survivors still in hospital. Finally, the outpouring of love from our friends, family and the Gold Coast community has touched us all and will never be forgotten."

Family visit memorial in Australia

This morning, (January, 5) 9News Queensland reported that the family have flown over from the UK to pay their respects and mourn the death of Ron and Diane.

Reporter Nick Kelly, for 9News Queensland, said: "The family of Ron and Diane Hughes stopped by to lay some flowers and take a moment to read some of the kind words that have been written by well-wishers who have stopped by here over the last few days."